Northern Lights expected to be visible across UK tonight

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 12 Oct, 15:02 · Archive

The Met Office has issued an alert that the Northern Lights will be visible in the UK tonight, including Oxfordshire. The phenomenon, also known as the Aurora Borealis, has been glimpsed several times in 2025, though sightings have been less frequent so far in 2026. Stargazers captured many photographs over the weekend.

Senior Operational Meteorologist Greg Dewhurst said sightings could strengthen further. 'They may be a little stronger again Monday night, so could be seen further south into central areas,' he stated. 'Long exposure camera shots may show something each night a little further south than the above visible by eye forecast.'

The Northern Lights will typically be prominent from 11pm onwards, with sightings often occurring in the early hours of the morning. Recommended viewing locations in Oxfordshire include the Rollright Stones, an ancient stone circle offering a rural setting; Blenheim Palace Park in Woodstock, with expansive open grounds away from city lights; and Cotswold Water Park to the west of the county, which features a scenic lake district with minimal light pollution.

How it is being reported

• Northern Lights to be visible in UK tonight after Met Office alertThe Northern Lights are set to be visible in the UK tonight, including Oxfordshire, after a Met Office alert was issued.Oxford Mail · 12 Oct, 14:30
• Northern Lights to be visible in UK tonight after Met Office alertThe Northern Lights are set to be visible in the UK tonight, including Oxfordshire, after a Met Office alert was issued.Oxfordshire Guardian · 12 Oct, 14:30

In this story: UK · Oxfordshire · Met Office · Greg Dewhurst · Rollright Stones · Blenheim Palace Park · Cotswold Water Park

This summary was written by AI from the headlines and standfirsts above, and states as fact only what at least two outlets report. How we use AI · Report a problem